1 Chronicles 16:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Chronicles 16:29
29 Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.
Chapter Context
1 Chronicles 16 is a historical and genealogical chapter in the Old Testament that explores themes of hope, grace, sacrifice. Written during the post-exilic reflection on David's reign (c. 430-400 BCE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written after exile to reestablish national identity through connection to David's lineage.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Chronicles and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Chronicles 16:29
29 Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.
Analysis
The dual command to 'give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name' and 'bring an offering' connects worship with sacrifice. The phrase 'glory due unto his name' (kavod shemo) acknowledges God's infinite worthiness - He deserves worship not based on what we gain but who He is. Bringing an offering demonstrates worship's costly nature; true praise involves sacrifice. The command to 'worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness' (hadrat qodesh) can mean 'in holy array' or 'in beautiful holiness,' suggesting both external reverence and internal purity. This prefigures Christ's perfect offering and calls believers to present themselves as living sacrifices.
Historical Context
Bringing offerings accompanied worship in ancient Israel's sacrificial system. David's establishment of regular sacrifices and worship (16:1-3) anticipated Solomon's temple, where morning and evening offerings would continue daily, pointing forward to Christ's once-for-all sacrifice.
Reflection
- What 'offerings' - time, resources, service - is God calling you to bring as worship?
- How does understanding God's infinite worthiness affect your enthusiasm and reverence in corporate worship?
Word Studies
- Glory: כָּבוֹד (Kavod) H3519 - Glory, weight, honor
Cross-References
- Worship: Psalms 72:15, 100:4
- Glory: Psalms 29:2, Isaiah 6:3, Revelation 7:12
- Holy: 2 Chronicles 20:21, Psalms 96:9, 110:3
- Parallel theme: Psalms 95:2, 96:6